Quake, After 30 Years, Returns with an Unexpected Update
Quake is back in the spotlight almost 30 years after its 1996 release. A new expansion, Dawn of the Machine, developed by MachineGames, adds 19 new levels to the game. But the update doesn’t stop there; it also unlocks new weapon variations, archival content from the development process, and some previously unfinished playable levels.
What Does the Quake Dawn of the Machine Update Bring?
Dawn of the Machine joins MachineGames’ two previous expansions for Quake, plunging the main character into a “dimension filled with endless illusions.” Containing a total of 19 new levels, the content aims to diversify classic Quake gameplay with new weapon options.
New options include the Super Axe, which creates a lightning effect with successive attacks, and the Laser Cannon, which bounces and reaches enemies from different angles. These two weapons, in particular, could be one of the most striking aspects of the update for Quake fans who have been playing with the same arsenal for years.
On the more nostalgic side of the update are archival materials from Quake’s development process. Some early, unfinished levels are now playable. Extremely simple level names from the developers’ work files, such as “Tim,” “Tim10A,” and “Tim14,” have been preserved. Some notes clearly describe narrow corridors, unfinished dead ends, and designs whose exact purpose is unclear.
The Dawn of the Machine update was announced at QuakeCon in a panel attended by id Software co-founder John Romero. Romero jokingly noted that the event coincided with the 30th anniversary of his departure from id Software, rather than the game’s 30th anniversary. Quake became a symbol of a period marked by major divisions within the studio years ago. Now, 30 years later, the fact that it continues to receive new content reminds us once again of the game’s place in PC history.
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